MALDEN MUSINGS 10 questions with Councilor Kinnon

He's the Councilor who shot the M.A.T.V. ratings to their highest point in their 25-year history. He's the Councilor with a pie chart for every day of the week! "He's the cat that won't cop out when there's danger all about" - (yes, I KNOW that's bad but I have been listening to the Shaft Soundtrack all week).

He is Neil Kinnon - your friendly neighborhood Councilor from Ward 6. Malden Musings recently had 10 questions (plus one) for the long time Maplewood guy…

Q Favorite restaurant for a drink or dinner in Malden?

A Serena’s in Maplewood hands down. I love Italian food and this is as good as any place in the North End.

Q Growing up - most admired or most inspirational national politician?

A I can’t say that anybody during the 70’s inspired me, although I read and loved history and politics. In 10th grade (1978) I read "Plain Speaking" the oral history about Harry Truman by Merle Miller. That book did inspire me, as did Truman. I did a paper on the book in Mr. Finn’s history class at MHS. We need more "plain speaking" politicians today. On a personal note, I always felt that if it were not for Truman and his decision to drop the atomic bomb I might very well not be here, as my father who was in the Army, was getting ready to be shipped over for the invasion of Japan.

Q Last movie seen?

A Cinderella Man on DVD - one of my all-time favorite movies.

Q Who were your favorite musical acts growing up?

A Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band, Billy Joel and Chicago.

Q Must see TV - what are you currently watching?

A Boardwalk Empire.

Q Most admired local politicians - who are they?

A Former Mayor Richard Howard for his monumental work on the building of all the new schools and supporting choice in education of all kinds. Former Mayor Conway for his endless service to the community he so loves-- and to be well into his eighties and still going at it is amazing. I can only hope to have his energy at that age.

Q Favorite place or park to just hang out or play sports in Malden growing up?

A The Malden YMCA. The Y had an incredible impact on my life that I can never forget. If I had not ended up doing what I do I would have been happy to have ended up being a Director of a YMCA.

Q Most inspirational educator growing up?

A Jim Whittaker, my Gym Teacher from Browne Junior High and also my high school swim coach. He took me under his wing and encouraged and motivated me endlessly. In junior high he let me practice with the high school team and swim in meets unofficially. He would always keep track of how you were doing in school and was a true motivational person.